HOUSTON (TICKER) -- Houston Rockets forward Maurice Taylor, who signed a $48 million contract less than a month ago, apparently has suffered a torn Achilles tendon.

According to a statement from the team, Taylor was hurt while working out in Detroit, his hometown. He is scheduled to meet with the Rockets and could have surgery as soon as Wednesday.

&quot;Taylor has injured his right Achilles tendon while working out in Detroit,&quot; Rockets general manager Carroll Dawson said. &quot;He has been evaluated by doctors in Michigan, who believe he has torn his right Achilles tendon.&quot;

On August 6, Taylor signed a six-year, $48 million contract to remain with the Rockets. He could be sidelined for most or perhaps all of the 2001-02 season.

&quot;He will be re-evaluated by our team physicians upon his arrival to Houston and, if he has torn his Achilles tendon, surgery will be performed tomorrow,&quot; Dawson said.

Taylor became a free agent July 1 and was re-signed when the club failed in its bid to acquire Chris Webber. The Rockets also lost center Hakeem Olajuwon in free agency, leaving Taylor as their best offensive frontcourt player.

The 6-9, 260-pound Taylor, 24, signed with the Rockets last year after playing three years with the Los Angeles Clippers and averaged 13.0 points and 5.5 rebounds. He has career averages of 14.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 248 games.

Training camp begins October 1. Taylor was expected to be the starting power forward alongside Kelvin Cato, but that spot may go to second-year player Kenny Thomas or rookie Eddie Griffin.